If you are looking for a high-performance five-color offset printing machine with exceptional reliability and precision, the Heidelberg SM 66-5P 1998 is a time-tested choice. Built by the industry leader Heidelberg, this five-color offset press offers high-speed production, versatile paper handling, and advanced automation — ideal for commercial printing businesses.
In this article, we’ll explore the features, technical specifications, working process, and why this model still holds value in the pre-owned offset printing machine market today.
Key Features of HEIDELBERG SM 66-5P (1998 Model)
The Heidelberg SM 66-5P is a five-color offset printing press with perfecting capabilities, making it highly suitable for jobs that require front and back printing with multiple colors.
Here are the standout features:
- 5-Color Printing Units – Enables CMYK + Spot or Pantone color jobs.
- Perfecting Unit (1/4) – Allows automatic perfecting (reverse side printing) up to 4/1 or 5/0 configurations.
- Sheet Size – Up to 480 x 660 mm, suitable for a wide range of commercial jobs.
- Alcolor Dampening System – Alcohol-based dampening for consistent ink-water balance.
- Preset Plus Feeder & Delivery – Faster makeready and paper changeover.
- CPTronic Control Console – Centralized control system for easier press operations.
- Speed – Up to 13,000 sheets per hour.
- Ink Remote Control – From console for fine ink zone adjustments.
- Automatic Blanket Washers – For faster cleaning between jobs.
- CPC 1.04 or CPC 1.02 – Ink control, job memory, and data communication.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Heidelberg Speedmaster SM 66-5P |
| Year of Manufacture | 1998 |
| Number of Printing Units | 5 Colors |
| Perfecting | Yes, 1/4 Perfecting System |
| Max Sheet Size | 480 x 660 mm |
| Min Sheet Size | 210 x 280 mm |
| Max Printing Speed | 13,000 sheets/hour |
| Paper Thickness Range | 0.03 – 0.6 mm |
| Dampening System | Alcolor Alcohol Dampening |
| Feeder & Delivery | Preset Plus |
| Control System | CPTronic with CPC |
| Washing Devices | Automatic Blanket & Roller Wash |
| Power Requirements | Approx. 45 kW |
| Dimensions (approx.) | 8.5 m x 3.2 m x 2 m |
| Net Weight | Around 19 tons |
Working Process of Heidelberg SM 66-5P
The printing workflow in the SM 66-5P involves multiple stages that ensure high-quality, accurate prints on both sides of the paper:
- Sheet Feeding:
The Preset Plus Feeder prepares and aligns sheets with precision, reducing feeding errors. - Inking and Dampening:
Each unit contains ink and dampening rollers that deliver a consistent film of ink and water, critical for sharp image reproduction. - Plate Cylinder Operation:
Printing plates are mounted onto the plate cylinders, which transfer inked images to the blanket cylinders. - Perfecting Mechanism:
The built-in perfecting device flips the paper after the first side is printed, allowing immediate backside printing without manual intervention. - Impression Cylinder & Delivery:
The impression cylinder ensures uniform pressure for transfer, while the delivery section collects printed sheets in order. - Cleaning Cycles:
With automatic blanket washers, the press quickly cleans itself between runs, reducing downtime.
Why Choose the Heidelberg SM 66-5P 1998?
Despite being a 1998 model, the Speedmaster SM 66-5P remains a workhorse press. Its robust build and legendary Heidelberg engineering make it a popular choice among printers seeking affordable, high-quality offset machines.
Benefits Heidelberg SM 66-5P:
- Ideal for medium-run commercial jobs
- Affordable second-hand market pricing
- Reliable performance and ease of maintenance
- Perfect for printers handling brochures, magazines, packaging inserts, and more
Applications of Heidelberg SM 66-5P
- Brochures & Flyers
- Catalogs & Magazines
- Stationery & Posters
- Packaging Inserts
- Art and Photo Prints (when using spot colors)
Maintenance & Service Tips
To keep your Heidelberg SM 66-5P in top condition:
- Regularly service the dampening system
- Clean and calibrate the CPC console
- Inspect the ink rollers for wear and replace as needed
- Use quality consumables (blankets, plates, inks, etc.)
- Lubricate moving parts as per the manual
Conclusion: Is the Heidelberg SM 66-5P Right for You?
The Heidelberg SM 66-5P 1998 continues to be a reliable and powerful solution for commercial printers looking for cost-effective five-color and perfecting capabilities. Whether you’re a startup or a seasoned print house, this machine delivers impressive results in terms of speed, flexibility, and print quality.
If you’re in the market for a used Heidelberg offset press, the SM 66-5P is a time-tested machine worth your investment.
